Okay, this will be first story on this forum and hopefully, I impress you all with it. This story will be PG-13, so there will language, but worry not there will only be a 4 - 7% chance of them using the D-word or the H-word, in layman's terms, only in super, ultra rare occasions. As for blood and such, same percentage, 4 - 7% chance. And now the big one, the not-so-PG-13-stuff-yet-it-still-is type of material. (Forgive me, its hard to limit myself when doing PG-13 types of stories, doesn't mean I won't try ) Nothing to worry about here, hardly to almost never , will anything ever happend, so fear not! Well, now that that has been settled, I won't have to worry about getting flag for not mentioning something. (Or have Rick Griffin kill me because of my neglect. )If there is anything I forgot to mention, let me know please.

With that out of way, let's get on with it people.

Housepets! Battle of the SoulsChapter one: The Enigmatic dog's arrival

*On the road, approximately 20 minutes until arrival*

"You know, we're almost towards The Babylon Gardens, roughly 20 minutes or less. Are you nervous?" Asked a gruff voice, it was mostly directed towards the passenger side of the vehical along with the moderate sound of the radio playing as well, smooth and classical music was coming from the station on the radio.

"No father, I am not anxious in manner of which you have in mind. If anything that is related to the latter, I am positively thrilled to be living in a community that is both populated by both species. The way I see it, it is a new chapter of my life and I look forward to writing it." Replied an elegant male voice, it was responding to the first.

"A new chapter huh? I guess when you put it that way, it is isn't it?" The male replied. "You get to be around fellow pets and I get to be around fellow humans, it all works out for us. Good thing I took the deal and decided to move us out here. The last place was too crazy." The human male pointed out.

"Yes it was father. It was far too uproarish for my tastes. It's nice that we are moving to a more calm location in the United States." The second male replied.

"Yep. And it's a pet friendly community. You'll be surrounded by other pets as well. Isn't that a nice factor?" The human male asked.

"To be surrounded by my own kind is something that of relief. It wil be nice to be around other felines and canines." The second male replied.

"So long as you do not forget the task your mother left for you. Understand?" The human asked.

"Worry not father, I will not forget my mission. I will see it through without fail." The canine confrimed. The human driving the car only chuckled at his pet's answer.

"No need to sound like a robot, I said to make sure you don't forget it, not make your task your raison detre. You're too stiff about it sometimes, lighten up. We're moving to a new place, I want you to enjoy yourself while we're there. Make new friends and if you're lucky and play your hand right, you just might snag yourself a lovely female dog to hang out with." The human chuckled out, but the canine male did not find that response so humorus. A faint growl was in his voice.

"Father, I have told you this time and time again. My task is arrive in Babylon Gardens and meet with the one I am meant to meet and train him. I have not the time nor the leisure to seek out companionship or any other trivial folly that follows the latter of the topic. Please do not bring up that manner of subject again." The canine growled to his owner, his focus on him along with a steel gaze, that was pericing through the driver, but he shook it off.

"Okay, okay. No need to get your collar in a knot. It was just a simple suggestion, the hostility is not needed." The human male replied. "By the way, why are you stil holding on to that package? You got that over a year, yet you never opened it. Why is that?" The driver asked.

"My deepest apologizes father, but under regulation, I am forbidden to share that type knowledge with you. Besides, what's in this package, it's a secrect." The canine male replied with a grin to his master.

"Secret? What kind of secret?" The human asked.

"That's a secret as well. Forbidden to speak of it." The canine replied.

"Great, now you got me all curious and such. Thanks alot." The human responded.

"Well father, if your kind from the past of so very long ago had not eatten that apple from the Tree of Knowledge, curiosity would not be an issue this moment, now will it?" The canine asked, a smug grin on his muzzle.

"You've been reading from the Book of Genesis again haven't you?" The driver asked.

"More or less. I try not to delve so deep." The canine admitted while chuckling to himself.

*Babylon Gardens*

"But moooooooom, it's Saturday. Why do you have to work today?" Groaned a semi-highpitched voice.

"I'm sorry sweetie, but I was called in. When that happens, I have to go. No execptions I'm afraid." Mrs. Sandwich pointed out while taking a one last sip of her coffee, before placing the cup in the sink along with all the other dirty dishes that needed to be washed.

"But I'm so booooored. And there is nothing to do. I played all my games, I'm not really in the mood to draw today, me and dad already played fetch, and it's not even noon yet, Grape just started her nap, I don't wanna disturb her just yet. I wanna give her at least a 20 minute head start. You sure you just can't skip today?" Peanut asked.

"I'm sorry hon, but I'm really needed today. One of the workers called in sick and I have to take her place. So no skipping." Mrs. Sandwich pointed out while walking over to the main hallway which Peanut tagged behind.

"Yes Peanut, that's how it mostly is at time. But still, this my job so I have to go. Besides, the day isn't over yet. Why not spend it with your girlfriend? Or spend it at your club with the other dogs." Mrs. Sandwich offered.

"Originally me and Tarot had a date planned, but she cancelled. Important matters of some kind came up. And I really don't plan on going to the Good Ol Dog's Club. Bino is giving the same speech about 'Toilet Bowl' rights again. I guess I'll go for a walk or something around the neighborhood." The brown dog replied with a sigh as he followed his owner to the front door.

"That sounds like a good idea. Taking a walk always helps when you have nothing to do. And it's nice and cool out as well, that's a nice add. Now, I have to get going. I'll be home the usual time. So keep the house orderly alright?" She asked while kneeling down to Peanut's level.

"Yes mom, I promise." Peanut answered.

"Good boy." Mrs. Sandwich said as she placed a gentle kiss on his head before standing back up and proceeded to open the front door. "Oh, I almost forgot to mention. We're getting new neighbors today." She added. Peanut's eye went wide from the sudden news and his tail began to wag at a very fast pace.

"We're getting new neighbors?!" Peanut shouted, his paws clenching as his whole demeanour changed from bored to excited.

"That's right, they're moving in next door. If luck is on our side, they'll be here early." Mrs. Sandwich replied.

"This so COOL! We're gonna have new neighbors! I wonder what he's like? Does he like games? Does he like dogs? Does he HAVE a dog? If he does, what kind of dog is he? What does he look like? What is he like? Does he like to play fetch? OH! Does he like the Pridelands series?!" Peanut asked, bombarding his owner with a bundle of question. Mrs. Sandwich could only chuckle at the canine's excitment.

"Honestly Peanut, I don't know. They're a complete mystery to us. Unfavoriably, I can't greet them. I'll be home the usual time and it'll be too late, but that's where come in Peanut. I would like for you to be the one that welcomes then to neighborhood. Can you handle it?" Mrs. Sandwich asked the dog before her.

"Of course I can, just leave it to me mom!" Peanut declared with a smile.

"There's a good boy." Mrs. Sandwich complemented while petting him. "Well, I best be going. Make sure to have our neighbors feel welcomed." She added while turning to open the door.

"I promise." Peanut replied.

"Okay. I'll see you later." Mrs. Sandwich responded while closing the door.

"Bye mom!" Peanut called while watching the door close. After waiting to the click of the lock, Peanut did a 180 and darted up the stairs towrads his room while calling out for "Graaaaaaape!"

*Babylon Gardens, outside*

"Looks like we made it, and the moving truck is already waiting there for us. Looks like we saved them some time instead of having them wait for us for a while." Said the human while pulling the car into the drive way, parking it next to the open truck, seeing that the delivery men were waiting on the inside. They waved to him as he was turning the car off and undoing his seatbelt, his pet doing the same.

"Can the blame be solely on them father? We have been on the road for over nine hours. If they were to remain stationary any longer, to be expected, their irritation would only increase. So let us not delay any longer then is needed and proceed to lend these gentlemen a hand with our belongings." The canine replied while undoing is seat belt and proceeded to open the door, the odd package still in his paw. Both he and his owner walked up to the front door while the human fished for his housekeys, the dog beside him only let out a minor groan of annoyance.

"Father, the keys are in your shirt pocket. You placed them there over nine hours ago." He said, looking up at the human who was reaching the spot that he was told.

"Right, I knew that." The owner chuckled, making the canine roll his eyes.

"If you say so father. Now, I do not mean to be rude, but could you open the door posthaste? I would like place this down in my new so that I may go find to the nearest tree to mark. I have been stationary for too long, and I URGENTLY need to aliviate myself." The dog said, his right foot twitching thanks to the call of nature being so great.

"I told you not drink those three Mega Chug sodas in one setting. What possessed you drink them all in one setting?" He asked while inserting the the key into the slot and undoing the lock.

"The hot weather, the long drive and the fact that us canines become much more parched then any other animal or human. So forgive me if I sound a tad vexed." The dog replied, one of his legs was now bounching.

"Okay okay. I hear you. And there you go," The human said while opening the door, granting his canine pet and the movers passageway into the house. "Access is now-" he did't get to finish, the dog just blitzed past him and into the empty house and in a few seconds he ran back out and passed his owner, making his way to the backyard. "Granted." He finished while heading inside. The movers took that as the signal and prepared to unload the furniture.

*Meanwhile, in the Sandwich home.*

"Graaaaaape! Hey Grape!!!" Peanut called out as he bursted through the door to his room. Upon entering the room, he could see a purple feline that was comically plastered in her sleeping basket. Her rear was up against the edge of her basket while her legs were up against the wall, one over the other. Her arms were hanging over the front as was her head. Her mouth was wide open and loud snores were very much apart of the reason why her mouth open. As funny as she looked, he had to tell her the good news! "C'mon Grape wake up! I have good news! " Peanut cajoled whiled gently shaking the feline awake. But it wasn't working.

"Please Grape, wake up!" Peanut whinned while shaking her a little harder this time, but as expected, the purple feline would not wake.

"Grape...! Grape... GRAPE!!!" Peanut shouted at the top of his lungs, trying to awaken his feline friend, but to no avail did she sturr from the realm of sleep. Peanut knew that since his outdoor voice to get her up didn't work, he had to resort his last choice, one he had hoped to avoid using, for he knew that it could go one of two ways.Path number 1. A very powerful and painful punch to the face, possibly knocking something lose.Or....Path number 2. He get's the cold shoulder from her for the next two weeks.Both outcomes were risky,

But it had to be done.

Carefully, he leaned down and by a small margin, brought his muzzle to her left ear and spoke in a gentle tone saying, "Hey Grape, did you hear? About the next volume of Pridelands?" He started off, in response, her ear twitched a bit.

"Mhm... whudaboudit?" She asked, her voice slurred and her eyes still closed. She was bearly conscious, yet still hovering in the realm of slumber.

"Sorry to tell you this, but I just got word from Res that he's cancelling the volume and future products of the series." Peanut lied while pulling back, preparing for the show that was about to happen. From the barely awake feline, that fatal sentence delivered to her forced her eyes to snap wide open, knocking off all traces of sleepiness.

"WHAT?! CANCELLED?!!" Grape shout as she shot up from her crazy position and turned to stare at the chocolate colored dog, who was stood there with his paws behind his back, a striaght faced expression on him, as he watched the feline start to spaz out. "I-I don't understand? Its such a popular franchise, why would he drop the ball like?" She asked while pivoting her body the same way she was facing.

"It was a huge shock to me too, I mean, the story line was pretty much perfect, hardly any plot gaps and... you know what I can' t keep this going." Peanut admitted, not liking the fact that he was lying to his best friend. He never was the type to lie. No matter how long or short.

"What, Peanut what are you talking about?" Grape asked while hopping of her bed and landing in front of the dog, who was now folding his arms behind his back.

"That thing about the whole Pridelands being cancelled. That was a lie." The dog admitted, his ears lowering in shame, while telling the truth. Grape's shock and disbelief quickly evaporated and anger was slowly surfacing in it's place.

"You made up that cancellation thing just to wake me up did you? Why did you lie about something so serious?" She ask while folding her arms.

"Because... well..." Peanut started.

"Go on." Grape instructed in a non-harsh commanding tone.

"Because... I wanted to tell you something." He admitted.

"Is it something stupid?" Grape asked while walking towards, making the dog super nervous for what might happen to him, even though he was well aware of actions and the aftermath.

"No... not really. I just wanted to let you know that we have new neighbors moving in today. I didn't think you knew about it." Peanut admitted, hoping that would calm her down.

"Same thing for me too. Mom just told me before she left work." Peanut replied, relieved that Grape wasn't going to do painful things to him, or at least he hoped.

"Wait, mom went to work? But it's Saturday. She's off on the weekends." The purple feline pointed out while hopping back onto her basket and looking out the window, trying to find any trace of the car she drove.

"I said the exact same thing to her, but even that couldn't stop her. She was 'called in' as she put." Peanut mention while watching the purple cat from the floor level.

"She was called in? Honestly, sometimes I just can't comprehend the notions of humans the their work ethic." replied Grape, as she kept her attention on the outside.

"You're telling me. Isn't the whole point of weekends meant for relaxing? They work during the week? Why stress themselves on the two days they're meant to take it easy?" Peanut asked.

"You got me there, I'll give you that. But more on that subject later, looks like our new neighbors are here." The feline interject.

"What? They're here already?" Peanut asked.

"Well from where I'm standing, or kneeling in this case, I see two vehicles; one red car with a few dents and a large white van with the company name: Movers-Express along with two guys hauling in a couch inside. Come see for yourself," said Grape, allowing Peanut to be beside her. Peanut didn't need to be told twice, right away he hopped up and landed beside her, now looking outside along with her. "See? We got two guys moving a couch in, and one guy standing on the side, not doing anything yet. I'm guessing that he's the new guy here," Grape pointed out.

"So he's the new guy huh? Do you think he's into D&D like Fido's dad and the others?" Peanut asked.

"Dunno, you can ask when we meet him. Still when someone moves into Babylon Gardens, they have a pet with them. So where is the-" "New dog! There he is!" Peanut pointed in excitment, seeing a canine appear, most likely coming from the back, his paw digit on the glass showing the canine position to Grape.

"So that's the new dog huh? Has a good height on you Peanut, roughly by a couple, at least that's what I can tell from up here." Grape gussed.

"Who cares, we have a new dog in the neighborhood. I wonder what he's like?" Peanut asked while removing himself off of Grape's basket and onto the floor.

"Peanut we don't even know if the dog is male or female, how can you be so sure?" Graped asked while turning to face him, seeing that Peanut was already walking towards the door to their room preparing to exit.

"Only one way to find out. I'm going over there to greet them. Feel free to join me after letting dad know. See you in a bit." And with that, he was out and on his way to the new neighbors, leaving Grape behind to let their dad know of the new folks that moved in.

*Outside of the Sandwich home and nearby*"Okay, Now that couch and a majority of other things are inside, you guys want some water?" The human make asked the movers who were now on break.

"That would be nice, thanks." Replied one of the movers while fanning himself with his hat.

"Alright. Two glasses of cold water coming right up. Be right back." He then turned his attention to the canine beside him, whose arms were folded behind his back. "These guys are on break, so don't do anything to bother them, alright?" He asked.

"Yes father, I'm aware. I will go retrive the rest of my belongings." The canine replied.

"Okay, I'll leave you to it. But hurry now, later we're going to introduce ourselves, so hop to it." And with that, the owner made his way into the home to complete the task at hand. Seeing no need to stay on the porch or talk to the movers, he proceeded to off the porch and braved the hot sun on his way to the truck to retrive his items. Rounding the corner of the truck and walking up it's ramp to the inside, he could see that over 75% of their things had been moved in the home. He walked over to a nearby box that was his and proceeded to pick it up and bring it inside as well. Just as he was about to reach down and take hold of his possessions, a painless yet strong ringing was going off in his head but this time it was gettng louder, more so then when he arrived and it could mean only one thing.

'Here he comes, and so soon too. Normally I'd expect some form of hesistation, but that does not appear to an issue here, or at all for that matter. He is a brave one as well. Good, that will be needed soon.' The dog thought to himself as he stood back up and turned to face the exit, seeing a brown and cream-colored dog with a red collar and white bone tag, approach the property, with a bright smile on his face. He left the gox where it was and proceeded to leave the truck to greet Peanut.

"So this is the new neighbors' house huh? Cool! He's right next door, that saves me the trip. Now where is the new guy? Is he in the house or the back?" He asked aloud which think of the places where the new dog could be.

"I am in neither of those places, I am here, in the truck. In the back rather." Said a sopisticated voice, jostling Peanut's thinking and making him jump a little and look around.

"Whoa! Who said that?" Peanut asked out while looking around for the voice.

"If you are looking for my being, then look towards back of the truck that you are standing beside." The voice instucted. Peanut did as he was told and turned his attention to the spot he was instructed towards, when he did, he was now looking at a dog make it's way down the ramp of the truck with a smile on his face. Peanut stepped back a bit to give neighbor some room to stand in front of him. Now that he was seeing him in the light of the sun, he got a better look at him and what he looked like. This dog that was standing before him had jet black fur that covered most of his body albeit, for the white section that was on his slender, yet muscular chest, extended completely to his shoulder blades. Back to the chest, Peanut could see that he had a fluffy mane that wasn't so poofy, like regular border collie. Moving his eyes to this unknown canine neighbor, the white section went all the way to his chin while the top half was black like the rest of his body. He also noticed that his ears were perfectly pointy and slightly curved, resembling that of a husky. If he had to guess, most likely the was curved into a lose coil. As for the eyes, even though they were slightly squinted, giving off that sinster appearance, Peanut saw that the actual color of his eyes were a silver color, almost making them shine in the sun. As for the height, he was taller, just like Grape said. He shook off that last negative part and offered his most friendly smile, wanting to make him feel welcomed.

"So you're the new guy." Peanut started while holding his paw out to the dog before him. "Well let me be the first to welcome you to Babylon Gardens. Hi! I'm-"

"Peanut Butter Sandwich. I already know who you are, young one. No need to say," The canine said while taking hold of his paw, gripping it gently and shaking it, shocking Peanut by already knowing his name, even though this is the first time meeting.

"Please allow me to introduce myself," the canine said while letting go of Peanut's paw. He placed his forearm over his lean belly letting it hover while his paw was opened and proceeded to introduce himself to a shocked Peanut. "My name is Horizon Clustrum. It is an honor to meet you Sire." Horizon stated while bowwing before the confused canine.

TBC...So there you go. The end of chapter 1. So tell me, what do you guys think? Was that a good start? Was I missing something, were there spelling errors? Please let me know. And there you have it, a mysterious dog moving into the neighborhood who already the protaganist. Where will that lead? And why?

A very interesting start. I'm liking Horizon already. Yet I don't know what to think of him beyond that.

You have quite a few small errors in here. One place you have gox instead of box, and a lot of places seem like they are missing a word. If it was only one or two I would point them out, but I think you should re-read it yourself and look for them. There is nothing else that I can really give at this point. Most of your mistakes were like what I said, nothing really wrong with the story itself. I hope to see more in the future.

A very interesting start. I'm liking Horizon already. Yet I don't know what to think of him beyond that.

You have quite a few small errors in here. One place you have gox instead of box, and a lot of places seem like they are missing a word. If it was only one or two I would point them out, but I think you should re-read it yourself and look for them. There is nothing else that I can really give at this point. Most of your mistakes were like what I said, nothing really wrong with the story itself. I hope to see more in the future.

Thanks. I have other stories going on and such, but I won't forget about this one either.

"There! you just said it again." Peanut pointed out while trying not to make a scene to the nearby movers, who were still waiting for the water the were promised.

"Oh, does the word 'Sire' confuse you? If that is the problem, then please allow me to explain. A 'Sire', that being your status to me, is one who-"

"I know what that means, what I mean is, why are you calling me that right off the bat? We just met. So why say that?" Peanut asked, in a calm manner still.

"Master Peanut," Horizon started.

"Oh great, now it's Master?" Peanut asked under his breath, while listening to the Husky-Collie mix.

"By natural reason of any kind that it very much true. While it is our first meeting and I shouldn't know who you are, our meeting is not by any means of the word 'natural'." Horizon informed, a gentle smile following posthaste. It had that sinster apperance, but at the same time it was innocent. Peanut didn't feel threatened by it or what he was told, if anything, he was captivated.

"We were meant to meet? What, you mean like destiny?" Peanut asked.

"That is correct Sire. Excellent deduction." Horizon complemented.

"So we were supposed the meet today? I don't know all the details but okay! It's nice to meet you Horizon!" Peanut replied, shaking off his suspicions of the canine before him.

"And I you, Sire." Horizon responded while picking the upper half of his body, now standing at full height. "But in all honesty Master, you surprise me." the husky-collie mix added, making the young pup before him arch an eyebrow.

"I do? How so?" Peanut asked.

"Normally, a regular person or pet in this matter, would find that my sudden arrival would be perfect grounds for suspicion of any kind, yet here you are, by yourself, greeting me, a total stranger. Why, if you do not mind my asking Master." Horizon asked.

"Well, you are the new guy here and you are sorta' alone, so wouldn't it be nice to have at least one local person from here to greet you, rather than you yourself have a hard time starting from nowhere and not know anyone?" Peanut asked, a genuine smile was on his face while waiting for an answer from the canine before him.

"You are correct, Sire. It would make sense, to have one who knows the area much better than I, rather than my self who knows nothing of here. So I thank you for your courtsy Master." Horizon replied with a quick bow.

"You're welcome Horizon. Huh, the whole 'Sire' and 'Master' title is going to take some getting used too." Peanut chuckled while placing one paw behind his head in a embarassed notion

"Worry not Young Master, you shall adapt." said the Husky-collie mix.

"The same can be said about your manner of speaking. By the way, what brings you to Babylon Gardens anyways?" Peanut asked, wanting to know what brought the new dog here.

"Well Sire, on the surface, My owner and I moved to this location for the peace and quite we read about, and honestly, it was obviously the correct choice to be made and decided by father. As for the main reason why I am here, well... I shall tell you later. Three individuals are upon arrival to my abode. Earl and Grape Sandwich, two from your home, and Tarot; your cherished confidante." Horizon pointed out.

"My confidante? What's that mean?" Peanut asked which scratching his head at the large word.

"My apologies Sire, allow me to inform you. 'Confidante' is another word that means the same equvialent for a fiancee, female companion or girlfriend. In your case, it clearly means girlfriend." Horizon told, granting Peanut understanding to his point.

"That's right, been together for more than two years, that's for sure. But you never met her, Grape or my dad. How did you know that me and Tarot were together or that Grape and Dad were my family?" The chocolate colored dog asked.

"About that, the reason how I know about you and those three I mentioned, you see Sire, I have this ability or power that is called: Soul Reading." Horizon explained to the dog. Peanut just stared at Horizon with knitted brows of confusion.

"I am glad you asked Sire, but rather then giving you a long and complex explination, I shall bottom line it for you. A Soul Reader is a individual that can read and sense souls that are nearby. So in a way, it acts like the ability to read minds, but on a much deeper level." Horizon said, causing Peanut wonder what the extent of his power was. If it was anything like his girlfriend's, he just had to know what he can do.

"Wow, so in a way you can read minds and such?" Peanut asked, unfazed by that claim.

"On basic terms, yes I can. Would you like an example?" Horizon asked.

"Yeah! Please please pleaseee... can you show me?" Peanut asked while clenching his paws together, while rapidly wagging his tail.

"Very well Sire, who shall I analyze?" Horizon asked.

"Okay, how about-" Peanut started, but cut off by a familar voice.

"Peanut, sweetie!" called out a honey toned voice, that right away caught his attention. He turned from Horizon to see a caramel colored canine, who shorter than his average height approaching him quickly, closing the gap until the canine leaped onto him, resulting Peanut to recoil a bit from the sudden hug in surprise, but quickly wrapped his arms around the pomeranian after recovering from the shock.

"Hey Tarot, what are you doing here, I thought you had to take care of the thing at the You-know-what. What happened? Did something else come up?" Peanut asked while pulling back a bit to look down at the female embracing him.

"Well, as it turns out, what I was needed for, that was cancelled too, so I am here to say that our date later on today is back on. Also, I foreknew that we would have a new denizen among us today, and from I gather," Tarot looked to the side, seeing the black and white husky-collie mix standing there with both arms behind his back, patiently waiting for the two of them to finish. "This is the one that is new here?" She asked while looking back at Peanut, who was looking down at her.

"Yep, this is the new guy. His name is Horizon Clustrum." Peanut introduced.

"An honor to meet you Madam Tarot." Horizon replied with a bow once more, causing the pomeranian to arch an eyebrow. Peanut just chuckled at her expression.

"...Likewise, I'm sure." Was Tarot's only reply, it was laced in uncertainty and wariness of the new canine before them.

"You'll have to excuse him, he speaks in a sophisticated manner, hope that doesn't bother you too much." Peanut said while releasing the female. Stepping back a bit, Tarot right away took hold of his paw in a somewhat defensive manner while keeping her eyes on him as if trying to inspect him or find anything negative about his form, thanks to that 'sinister' air he had about him, or at least she thought. Another thing that set off alarm bells in her mind, was the fact that she couldn't read him, she read the minds of other pets but not him, not even in the slightest margin, which unnerved her even more and his narrow slitted eyes and seemingly pretensive smile didn't do more to lessen her gaze, if anything that just caused her to tighten her paw more. Peanut could feel the slight pressure and was quick to address it. "Something wrong Tarot? You feel all tense." said the canine while looking down at the female who right away lessened her grip and tore her gaze away from Horizon and placed them back on Peanut.

"Oh, I'm sorry. I didn't mean to cause you harm. I have a bit of a stomach ache, that's all." Tarot lied while looking off to the side. But Peanut knew better.

"No need to lie about it Tarot, I already know. Sure Horizon comes off as scary looking, but he's nothing like that. Instead, he's a really nice guy, even though we just met. So please, be nice." Peanut requested. Normally, Tarot would trust her instincts and clearly they were telling, no warning her to stay away from the black and white dog before them. Obiviously something was wrong with him and she wanted to get her and Peanut away from here as quick as possible, but then again, Peanut requested her to stay and be polite to the resident. As much as she didn't want to do it, she didn't want to upset Peanut either. As much as it pained her on the inside, Tarot swallowed her pride and agreed in silent resentment.

"Well, if that's what you want... okay. I'll try to Peanut." Tarot replied, her ears lowering a bit.

"That's all I'm askin for." Peanut responsed while placing a gentle kiss on her cheek. While normally that would cheer her up in an instant, Peanut's answer didn't do anything to help her anxiety. "Well, now that you met my girlfriend, how about I show you around the neighborhood?" The chocolate colored dog offered.

"Well Peanut, I would be honored for to show me around, but what of Grape and your father?" Horizon asked. "In fact, here they come right now." he added while pointing towards the duo that were casually walking up the drive way. Peanut and Tarot tured to see that what he said was true. Grape and Earl were closing the gap, until they were within range of talking without having to call out by raising they're voice.

"So, you're the new guy huh?" Earl started while walking up towards Horizon, whose arms were still behind him.

"That would be correct, Mr. Sandwich. I am the new one here. My name is Horizon Clustrum. A pleasure to meet you sir." Horizon introduced while extended his paw to the human male.

"Well aren't you a sophisticated one," Earl replied while placing his hand into the canine's and gripped it, give a good firm handshake. "Pleased to meet you as well Horizon. Name's Earl Sandwich." Earl introduced back while letting go of Horizon's paw. "Gotta admit, you're one checkered dog with that kind of pattern on you." Earl joked.

"I have my parents to thank for that. I am a proud husky-collie mix. Thank you for noticing." Horizon then turned his attention to Grape, who was standing nearby with her arms folded, her expression was that of a unreadable one, like she was just waiting to be talked to. "You must be Grape, it is nice to meet you as well."

"Yep, that's my name. Nice to meet you up close this time." Grape replied while waving a bit before folding her arms again.

"Likewise. We'll, now that I have introduced myself to you all, allow me to fetch my father. I will not be long." Horizon said with a bow while heading towards his house, dissappearing beyond the doorway, leaving the four behind to chat amongst themselves.

"Well, he seems nice." Grape started.

"I'll say. His way of speaking is very mannered. That's something you only in purebreds or those of high pedigrees. You think he has papers of his status?" Earl questioned.

"Even if he does, that doesn't change the fact that he's one of us. We shouldn't treat him any different." Peanut pointed out, being the voice of reason for the circle of four. They all, aside from Tarot, simply nodded at the idea. After that small agreement, they heard footsteps from afar, ignaling them that Horizon had return as well as a another.

"Sorry to keep you all waiting," Horizon called while while walking towards them, they all saw him approach and something else caught thier attention and Peanut was the first to address it.

"It's no problem Horizon, so no harm done. That aside, when did you get that collar?" Peanut asked while pointing towards the object around Horizon's neck, it was slightly covered by his mane but it still could be seen very easily. As for the color that was, it was the same as Peanut's, only the shade was darker making it a crimson color. and for the tag, it was a sigil, crafted in the form of what looked to be a dog that was being enclosed with arms of another canine. The only difference of the second dog, was that it had wings and they were folded in front of the two, as if sheilding it's protectee from harm, come where ever it may. Peanut had to admit, it was a awesome looking tag.

"Oh this?" He asked while pointing towards it. "Just now, after retriving my father. before I did not have it on at the time. I was in the car over nine hours, and I really did not fancy having it on that long, especially when sweat collects. A rather clamy feeling really." Horizon answered.

"Oh yeah, I totally know the feeling, and man, when summer rolls around. It can be unbearable." Peanut added, trying to make small conversation.

"Yes, it is so much worse when you have long hair like I do, the humidity is just terrible." Horizon replied.

"Well isn't this nice. Only an hour and already you're getting to know the locals." said a voice that came from behind Horizon, causing all five of them to turn their attention to he human that was ther, simply standing casually with a smile on his face.

"Everyone, allow me to introduce you to my father." Horizon started.

"The name's Harold Clustrum. Pleased to meet you." He said while extending his hand to Earl, who right away took hold of it and gave a manly handshake with Harold, along with a bit of squeezing in there to measure the girt between them, a type of bonding thing between men.

"I can say the same thing back to you too Harold. Nice grip by the way." Earl replied while gripping just as much as Harold was, both of them grinning, trying to see who will back down first.

"Thanks, I work out from time to time. Seems like you do as well." Harold complemented back.

"It's a must at my job. Managing customers belongings aren't as light as you think they are." Earl stated. They both decided to release one another, seeing as how neither of them were going to back down before the other, they decided to go with a silent agreement and agreed to let go at the same time to save face in front of the pets.

"Is that a fact. Well, you must be good at your job."

"You bet I am."

"Good to know," Harold acknowledged. He turned his attention to the choolated colored dog that was standing there with a large smile that was aimed at him. "You must be Peanut, am I right?" Harold asked while kneeling in front of the dog. Peanut nodded with enthusiam while his tail reacted the same.

"Yep, that's me! Nice to meet you Mr. Clustrum!" Peanut greeted while extending his paw out towards the human.

"Well it's nice to meet you too Peanut." Mr. Clustrum replied while taking hold of his paw, giving it a gentle shake. after that he released him.

"Yeah, it's nice to meet new faces. Also," Peanut placed his paw Tarot's shoulder and brought her close to him. "I'd like to introduce to my awesome and precosmical gorgeous girlfriend; Tarot."

"Please to meet you Mr. Clustrum." Tarot followed up while placing her paws in front of her body, showing a humble expression to the human, as well as a slight blush from the fact that Peanut proudly addressed her as his signifigant other in front of the new residents.

"Well aren't you a pretty little thing, I see he adores you so," Harold then looked back to Peanut, a knowing smile on his gruff face. "You have fine taste ladies Peanut, this one right here, she's a keeper. Don't lose her now." Mr. Clustrum advised.

"Yes sir. I promise." Peanut replied with a smile.

"Good lad. Now if only I could get Horizon to be this social with the ladies..." Harold hinted while keeping his eyes away from the monochromatic canine, who didn't find what his owner said funny.

"Father..." Horizon warned, trying to keep his emtions in check from that remark.

"Anyways moving on," Mr. Clustrum then turned to Grape, who was simply standing there, her arms still folded, and her expression; that of a bored individual. "And I assume that you are Grape. Aren't a rare one, I've never seen a cat with purple fur before." Mr. Clustrum pointed out.

"Well, you'll be seeing more of my particular colored fur around the neighborhood often, so it'd be best to engrave it into your memory now, it's also nice to meet you as well Mr. Clustrum." Grape replied.

"Ah, don't worry about it. I've seen odd things in my life, so I'll be used to it in no time. Well, now we all have been properly introduced, would you all like some refreshments?" Harold offered.

"I would, if you would be so kind." Mr. Sandwich accepted.

"I'm okay thanks, had some milk not to long ago. So nope, but thanks for the offer anyways. Besides, originally I had a nap planned, but seeing as how a new turn of events took place, I now have date with Max, and it starts in the next 10 minutes, so I'm gonna get a headstart. I'll be back home around the usual time dad." Grape informed Mr. Sandwich before doing a perfect turn and started heading down drive, leaving Peanut, Tarot and Mr. Sandwich with the new neighbors.

"Well, that one vote for yes and one for no, how about you two, would you and Tarot, would you like something to drink?" Harold asked.

"No thank you, I'm good. How about you Tarot, are you thirsty?" Peanut asked.

"Well, it looks like it's just you and me Earl. Come on in, I'll show you around the, it's a bit bland right now, but don't worry about it. In the mean time; Peanut, Tarot, could two please be so kind as to show Horizon around the area? You know, help him get settled and be known by the other pets and owners. Can you do that for me?" Harold simply asked. Tarot was about to decline when Peanut jumped in head first at the offer.

"We'd be glad to! Just leave it to us, we'll make sure that he's know to the pets here right, Tarot?" Peanut asked the pomeranian. She was about to decline the offer that was made, a familar sensation went off in her head, one that she had know and was used to for a very, very, very long time. Honestly, Tarot was glad that she was given a chance to get away from Horizon as soon as possible, but on the negative side that granted chance, she didn't want to leave Peanut alone with him, for his safety and his well being. Just being near him was unnerving, but leaving Peanut with him was much worse, but this kind sensation she was feeling told her that she HAD to leave him, much to her chagrin. As much she didn't want to, she would just have to place her trust in Peanut.

"Sorry Peanut, but I can't. I just recieved word from my other assignment and it's an urgent matter Imust attend to. I'm sorry." She replied lowly, not wanting Mr. Sandwich, Mr. Clustrum or Him to grow suspicious of what she meant. Peanut could her the dissappointment in her voice and yeah, he didn't want her to leave, but she had a job as a protecter that needed to be done, good thing it didn't constantly demanded her attention 24/7/365.

"Hey, I'm not upset. It's important to you, so I understand what you need to do. So go on and take care of it. We can plan our date next time." Peanut replied in an accepting tone voice, granting her some comfort. After give him a quick but meaningful hug, which he returned in tune, she walked down the drive way and proceeded to her home, but not before casting one last glance at Horizon, who still standing here, only this time, he waved at the Pomeranian with that same smile, which irked her vastly, she clenched her paw that was out of the view of others before turning away and taking off.

"And then there were two. Come on Earl, allow me to show you the house." Harold offered.

"I'd be delighted. I'll see you at home Peanut, just make sure you're not out too late." Mr. Sandwich infromed before following Harold to the house.

"Bye dad, I promise!" Peanut called back while waving to his father. Once he saw the two adults dissappear into the house, he turned his attention back to Horizon, who had his arms behind him still and his smile never fading. "Okay, ready to meet the other pets?" Peanut asked.

"Of course Sire, please lead the way, and I shall follow." Horizon answered. The sudden transition from being addressed by his name to now by his new appointed title, caused Peanut to ask.

"Um, I don't mean to be rude or anything, but why calling me Sire now, just a few minutes ago, you were calling me by my name normally, why the sudden change?" Peanut asked clearly confused by the sudden shift to his new title.

"Forgive my earlier discretions by using your name on first basis so losely Master," Horizon replied while quickly getting down at on one knee with a fist on the ground beside him, causing Peanut to jump a little. "Allow me to explain my arrogance. Neither Mr. Sandwich, Madam Grape, Madam Tarot, nor my father know of our relationship thus far. If I may be so bold, neither do you, or at least not yet Sire, but you shall in due time. I apologize if I have shamed you Sire. What method of punishment is recommended of my being Master?" Horizon asked, not moving from his position.

"Uh, it's okay, really! No need for punishment. And could you please stand up? There's no need for you to be like that, plus you're making me look like I'm better than you are, please don't do that." Peanut requested, trying to get him to stand up, not liking the way he was addressed while a fellow dog was kneeled before him.

"But you are Master, that is the way it was written and how it must be. But that what you wish then so be it," Horizon replied while standing back up, allowing the chocolate colored dog to breath out in relief. "I humbly and thoroughly apologize if I made uncomfortable Sire." Horizon added.

"It's fine, no harm done. Just don't go dropping down like in front of me like that, I was worried that some of the other pets would have seen that. But in all seriousness, don't worry if you slip up with my name, in all honesty, I'd prefer if you did just that." Peanut pointed out.

"My apologies Master, but it is forbidden for me to use your name so casually, it's the way I was raised and the law of my heritage. I hope this does not upset you Sire. Also, allow me to add, in the presences of the other pets, I shall be forced to address you by your name, not the titles that you have dominion over, it that alright with you Sire?" Horizon asked.

"Hey, that's cool with me, just makes things easier. Also, what did you mean by 'The way it's written and how it must be'. What did you mean by that?" Peanut asked, clearly wanting to know.

"Worry not Young Master, by tonight I shall tell you what you wish to know. But for now, would you please show me around?" Horizon asked.

"Tonight huh? Well okay, if I have to wait, I'll wait. Alright, first on the list, we need to get you acquainted with fellow canines the Good Ol' Dog Club, or GODC for short, so they don't see you as an intruder later on. And don't worry about Bino, his brother is here to put him in his place if he gives you any trouble." Peanut said as he and Horizon proceed to walk down the drive way.

"Oh, it sounds as though this Bino fellow my not be so pleasent." Horizon replied.

"Just wait until you see him person, then you'll understand." Peanut replied while chuckling.

"Oh? Does he have more then one malfunction I should find humorous?" Horizon asked. Peanut simply burst out laughing at the reply.

TBC...

Well, there you go, chapter two done and done. Hope you liked the little in-depth I went with for Horizon. Let me know if I should add anything else in the next chapter.Til then, this is EveningPen; signing off.

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